Looking for more information on autism? There’s an app for that.
In fact, there are several apps for that. April is Autism Awareness Month, and Apple is demonstrating the importance of bringing awareness about the disorder, to people who are affected by autism or those who want to learn more, by offering users the opportunity to explore apps that usually come with a price tag — for free. There are already some free apps available to install on the iPhone, iPad and iTouch (and other tech gadgets as well).
“Apps For Autism,” written by Lois Jean Brady, a Speech and Language Pathologist, provides useful information from social skills to academics to daily living with autism.
Autism, a brain disorder that makes it hard to communicate with others, affects one in 88 kids. One in 54 children affected by autism are boys.
Characteristics that are present in kids with autism include difficulty with social interactions and relationships. Symptoms are usually noticable before age 3 and may include:
- Toddlers may have a delay in learning to talk or may not talk at all.
- Kids affected have limited interests in activities.
- Children with autism may exhibit repetitive behaviors like body rocking.
- Autistic children may avoid eye contact and show an unusual attachment to objects.
Behaviors can range from mild to severe.
School counselors provide a wealth of information to students, parents, and teachers. I like to think that they are the “go-to” professionals in the building that can give you an answer or point you in the direction of the right answer! They, along with the special education team at your child’s school, can provide you with helpful information about autism. But, they can not diagnose autism.
If you have concerns about autism, visit your family doctor. For more information, visit www.autismspeaks.org.
“When your kid’s in school, you’re in school!” -Sharon Kind
Sharon Kind is a licensed School Counselor and Freelance Writer. A product of a military family, she is a mom of one daughter and resides in McKinney, Texas.
Sharon Kind can be reached at schoolcounselormom@yahoo.com.